25 April 2013

The 2013-14 Aberdeen Leadership Forum gets under way this month with another journey into the world of authentic leadership and storytelling.

Founded in 2012 by leadership coach Norton Bertram-Smith and narrative consultant Michael Williams, the Forum invites corporate and community leaders to come together to explore their leadership abilities within the context of authenticity, mindfulness and storytelling. The programme is entitled "A Narrative Approach to Transformational Leadership" and consists of seven day-long sessions held over a year in the beautiful rural setting of the Mary Culter Hotel on the River Dee.

"It's a challenging commitment," says Williams, "but the journey is worth it. Participants examine closely their leadership abilities, their values, beliefs and vision for the future. They really come to know themselves and learn to create and tell the stories that express their authenticity."

There are still a few places left on the programme, so if you or someone in your organisation is looking to take your leadership skills to another level, consider joining the Aberdeen Leadership Forum.

Click on the link above or contact Norton Bertram-Smith at On Purpose or call 01224 791876.

My chequered working life has demanded flexibility, agility of mind and body, and adaptation. It has made me who I am today. And it has coloured the narrative arc of my life story. Of course, there are times--mostly when I don't know where the next pay-cheque is coming from--when I think what my story might have been like had I settled for one profession instead of being a sort of "jack-of-all trades and master of none".

But mostly I am grateful for the story that I and the countless people whose paths I have crossed and walked on have co-created. I try to think of it as a tale of a rather long apprenticeship. It's not to say that there are times when I wish I could have become a professional storyteller at a younger age; but then I think, I couldn't be the storyteller I am today if I'd not encountered all those experiences and stories of which I was a part over a lifetime.

No, I'm learning to accept what I've made of life--the successes and failures, the achievements and mistakes. I'm learning to cherish the talents entrusted to me by the divine. I've tried to do the best with them. I just hope She/He/It has enjoyed the story as much as I have.

So, what's your story? What parts have you played in the play that is your life? How have you used your talents?

I'd be grateful if you'd share that in the comments box below (or email me if you wish). Thank you!

Testimonials

"We have received only very positive reports of your workshop, and must thank you for being so flexible and responsive both before and in the course of implementing the workshop. It has been lovely to work with you. . . . We are hopeful this project will give rise to future storytelling endeavours, and would be very happy to work with you again if the opportunity arises!" Muireann Crowley, At Home in Scotland, University of Edinburgh, May 2014 ("Storytelling, Research and Public Engagement" workshop)

Michael Williams is a a storyteller of compelling skill. He is also a fine human being who engages in all situations and draws people into the warmth of communication and shared experience." Donald Smith, Director, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Edinburgh Scotland

"Michael's understanding of storytelling within a leadership and business context has helped us provide a great service in helping leaders determine their personal and organisational destiny and legacy. Working with Michael is inspiring and fun; and pulls you to be fully engaged from start to finish." Norton Bertram-Smith, Managing Director and Leadership Consultant for On Purpose.

Kamink: the little boy who grew into a giant of a man

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